Rabid raccoon reported in Quinton Township

QUINTON TWP. — A raccoon that tested positive for rabies reportedly came into contact with two dogs in Quinton Township, officials said.

The Salem County Health Department reported on Friday that the raccoon came in contact with two dogs, which fought with the raccoon and came into contact with its saliva.

The raccoon’s saliva carried the rabies virus, health officials said.

The owner of the dogs cleaned the animals after their scuffle with the raccoon, and also could have possibly come in contact with the raccoon’s saliva.

The dog owner was advised to receive a rabies treatment series from their doctor. The dogs were up to date on their rabies shots but the owner was advised to get them booster shots and keep them under quarantine for 45 days for observation.

“Rabid animals pose a risk in our community. We have seen a lot of rabies cases in our community early in the season this year,” said Health Officer Nancy Gerrity. “We hope that pet owners will remember that wild animals can be a threat to their pets and themselves. Although we want to take care of our pets, cleaning them up can put us at risk as well.”